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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to escalate to a infrequent category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to handle nervousness and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Although it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.